Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with our mouthwatering recipe for Baked Barbecue Chicken. This dish strikes the perfect balance between tender, juicy chicken and tangy, sweet barbecue sauce. The best part? It’s all baked in the oven for an easy, fuss-free meal that will have your whole family asking for seconds.
Baked Barbecue Chicken
**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not overcrowded. This will help them cook more evenly.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure they are generously coated on all sides. Use a spoon or brush to spread the sauce evenly.
5. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
6. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the foil and switch the oven to the broil setting. Broil the chicken for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce caramelizes and forms a sticky glaze on the chicken.
7. Keep a close eye on the chicken while broiling to prevent burning. You want the chicken to have a nice char but not be charred.
8. Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender, juicy bite.
9. Garnish the Baked Barbecue Chicken with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this Baked Barbecue Chicken recipe is sure to be a hit. The combination of savory chicken and sticky-sweet barbecue sauce is a match made in flavor heaven. Plus, the simplicity of baking it all in one dish makes cleanup a breeze. So, fire up your oven and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for more!
